CEFZIL (CEFPROZIL)

Cefzil Description

Cefzil or generic Cefprozil is a cephalosporin antibiotic prescribed for treating many bacterial infections , including strept throat, and ear, sinus, bladder, or skin infections. Your doctor may want to perform testing to confirm that your infection is caused by bacteria or from a virus, which could take several days. Instead of waiting for results you may be prescribed Cefzil until tests are confirmed when you will either continue taking Cefzil or change medication for symptom relief if the infection is caused by a virus. Some viruses just need to run their course. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Does Cefzil Work?

Cefzil and other cephalosporins are effective bactericidal drugs, meaning the bacteria are killed. Susceptible bacteria include Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Escherichia coli, Proteus, and Haemophilus Influenza. Strept throat is a common bacterial infection treated with Cefzil and is so named for the Streptococcus bacteria that causes it.

When taken as directed, Cefzil will target the bacterial cell wall. To do this, Cefzil (Cefprozil) disrupts the synthesis of a substance called peptidoglycan. This an essential layer to the bacterial cell walls that provides protection from unwanted substances entering their cells and to prevent any contents of the cells from leaking out. As holes start to form in the cell walls from the effects of Cefzil, the bacteria cannot survive and they die.

Conditions Treated by Cefzil

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also be treated with cephalosporins such as Cefzil. Women are more likely than men to have a UTI due to having a shorter urethra and the close proximity of the vaginal opening to the anal opening. This makes it easier for bacteria to make their way inside and cause symptoms that include cloudy or strong smelling urine, pelvic pain in women, a burning sensation when urinating, and a strong urge that you have to urinate.

Before You Receive a Cefzil Rx

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding to be certain Cefzil is safe for your unborn or nursing baby. Provide information about other medical conditions or allergies to your doctor and list any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including alternative medicine and naturopathic therapies. This will help your doctor determine if Cefzil is the right medication for you.

Cefzil Precautions and Proper Use

Until you know how you will react to Cefzil, use caution around machinery and do not drive or attempt any activities that may be considered unsafe if you are dizzy or light-headed. If you are allergic to penicillin, there is a 10% chance that Cefzil, or other cephalosporins could cause a reaction. Take Cefzil for the prescribed time period, even if you are feeling better as stopping too soon may result in a reinfection or allow any remaining bacteria to build a resistance to this and other antibiotics.

Possible Side Effects of Cefzil

• Vaginal discharge
• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea